Leon Ma. Guerrero (1915-1982) is one of the most extraordinary diplomats of his era. He wrote "The First Filipino". The acclaimed biography of Jose Rizal. And he translated the most widely read editions of his novels. On retirement, he was given the country's highest foreign service honor: one of only three people ever to receive the award.
"For centuries we Filipinos have been last in out country. Now we mean to be first. For centuries we have not known the worth of our own patrimony, the measure of our own capabilities.
Now we are resolved to putting them to the test. This is a challenge we face in pure self-respect, in pure self-preservation without prejudice or hatred, with respect and consideration for all, including ourselves."